19 Free Things To Do In Ottawa This Winter If You’re Broke
We may spend a lot of time complaining about Ottawa's harsh winters. But, the truth is, they're just as beautiful as they are tough to endure. Sure, the air hurts your face when you leave your house, and that bus you're on could get stuck in the snow at any moment. But, there's no denying a fresh layer of pure white snow and a few strings of twinkling lights can truly transform the capital into an enchanting winter wonderland. So, if you're looking for free things to do in Ottawa, don’t count winter out just yet.
The capital's winters are iconic for being brutal, but it's also the time when you can have arguably the most fun. With snowy festivals, the world's largest outdoor skating rink, and breathtaking Christmas light displays, there's no shortage of winter amusement to be had. To sweeten the season even more, many of the best winter activities are free to attend, too.
So, we've collected some of the best places to visit and events going on in the city this season so that you don't have to. It's time to give your bank account the break it's been asking for without putting your plans on hold.
Skate on Rideau Canal
Price: Free
When: Weather permitting
Address: Ottawa
Why You Need To Go: Skating on the world's largest outdoor rink is a must-do in the capital. The opening of the canal is dependant on the weather, but as Ottawans know, winter could hit at any moment, so get those skates sharp and ready.
Ottawa Christmas Market
Price: Free entry
When: Friday, November 29 until Friday, December 20
Address: 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can experience Ottawa's very first outdoor Christmas market. Opening night will coincide with the lighting of the Lansdowne Christmas tree and you won't want to miss the holiday magic.
Passage
Price: Free
When: Until Tuesday, November 12
Address: Ogilvy Square
Why You Need To Go: Not only is this magical light and sound tunnel free, but you could actually win money for taking a selfie in it.
National Gallery of Canada Tree Lighting
Price: Free
When: TBD
Address: 380 Sussex Dr., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: One surefire way to get yourself in the Christmas spirit is to marvel at the size and pure beauty of the gallery's annual Christmas tree lighting.
Explore Mer Bleue Conservation Area
Price: Free
When: Year-round
Address: Ridge Rd., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: As we know, November in Ottawa could mean catching the last glimpse of stunning fall colours or it could mean being covered in a blanket of early snow. Either way, Mer Bleue Conservation Area is one of the best places to explore in Ottawa. And for no cost, you'd be silly not to take advantage.
Christmas Lights Across Canada
Price: Free
When: Wednesday, December 4 until Tuesday, January 7
Address: Confederation Boulevard / Parliament Hill, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can watch the magic of Christmas come to life in the heart of Ottawa. Now, this one isn't until December, but the lights and multimedia show are so beautiful you won't want to miss it.
Tobogganing @ Green's Creek
Price: Free
When: Weather permitting
Address: Ottawa East, ON
Why You Need To Go: Nothing says winter in Canada quite like tobogganing down epic snow hills like the one at Green's Creek. Just don't forget to wear your toque, eh?
Visit A Museum
Price: Free
When: Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Address: 240 McLeod St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Winter temperatures in Ottawa can be pretty harsh. If you're looking to escape the frigid cold, why not pop into one of the many amazing museums in the capital? For example, the Canadian Museum of Nature offers free admission to its permanent galleries every Thursday evening and it's a stunning place to hang out.
Ottawa Comiccon Holiday Edition
Price: Free entry
When: Saturday, November 9-10
Address: 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you can never afford regular Comiccon tickets, this free holiday edition is calling your name. Come in costume to show off your talent or simply enjoy other cosplayers as you wander the venue. If you wanted to spend a little money, you're sure to find some unique Christmas gifts.
Tropical Greenhouse
Price: Free
When: Year-round
Address: Maple Dr., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Ottawa's experimental farm doesn't cease being beautiful in the colder months. In fact, November offers a beautiful mix of vibrant fall colours against a snow-white backdrop. If it's too cold outside, just pop into the greenhouse to warm up.
Help Santa Toy Parade
Price: Free
When: Saturday, November 16 @ 11 a.m.
Address: Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can enjoy a classic Santa Claus parade and support a good cause at the same time. Firefighters will walk the parade route collecting cash and toy donations for less fortunate children.
The Museum's Christmas Market
Price: Free
When: Thursday, November 28 until Sunday, December 1
Address: 100 Laurier St, Gatineau, QC
Why You Need To Go: Even if you don't plan on buying anything, you can still enjoy the grand beauty of the Museum's Christmas Market. And, while this one is technically in Gatineau, there's an incredible view of Ottawa's Parliament Hill for you to enjoy as well.
Stittsville Parade of Lights
Price: Free
When: Saturday, November 30 @ 6 p.m.
Address: Stittsville, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can watch numerous community floats covered in sparkling lights as they illuminate the streets. The parade, of course, ends with Santa himself.
Christmas In The Market
Price: Free
When: Saturday, November 30 until Sunday, December 15
Address: Byward Market, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Just because summer is long over, that doesn't mean the Byward Market stops thriving. You can enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides and charming Christmas choirs as the market transforms into a magical wonderland.
Sens Rink of Dreams
Price: Free
When: Weather permitting
Address: 110 Laurier Ave. W., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: If the canal is a little too much for you, you can opt for the much smaller, but still amazing, Sens Rink of Dreams. If you're down for a night skate, the rink is beautifully illuminated with colourful lights.
North of Nashville
Price: Select free shows
When: Saturday, November 23
Address: Various locations, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you'd rather be listening to hot country jams in Nashville than stuck in the bitter Ottawa cold but you don't have the funds to travel, don't worry. The North of Nashville show is the perfect compromise. You can apply for free early bird tickets to select shows on their website. Many of the daytime shows are free as well.
Ottawa Farmers' Market Christmas Market
Price: Free entry
When: Saturday, November 30 until Sunday, December 22
Address: Aberdeen Pavilion, Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: While you may have to drop some cash on market goodies, you can get in for free. Plus, most years the market offers free horse-drawn wagon rides as well.
Visit Corktown Footbridge
Price: Free
When: Year-round
Address: Corktown Footbridge, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Whether you add a lock or not, the infamous Corktown Footbridge, aka Love Lock Bridge, has a beautiful view of the Rideau Canal and is a great spot to take a scenic walk downtown.
Christmas Carols at Sunset
Price: Free
When: Sunday, December 8 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: 5525 Dickinson St., Manotick, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can channel your inner Christmas elf and belt out some holiday classics at the historic Watson's Mill. With cheerful holiday sounds and a stunning sunset backdrop, you're sure to be in the holiday spirit after this.
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